OG meets with Councillors

The Orrong Group met with South Ward Councillors Mayor Melina Sehr and Cr Claude Ullin on Friday 10 June 5.30pm to discuss the process proposed for the preparation of an urban design framework. (We know how to kick off a long weekend.) Of particular interest were the plans for community involvement in the UDF.

The OG and felt that there are many issues which need to be resolved before the process should commence.

Our preferred action for now is a “deferral” of the decision until these many issues are further considered. Thus we’re hoping the ward Councillors recommend a deferral at Tuesday’s meeting.

A further meeting between the OG and the Council is planned for late next week. We will keep you informed of the outcomes. OG appreciates the time Councillors took to meet with us and look forward to ongoing communications.

We still suggest you attend Tuesday’s Council meeting to hear the debate on this important topic. Remember – the only way we’ll win this is by constant shows of community concern.

This development means traffic gridlock, overflowing train stations and tram stops, no more on-street car parking, a blighted skyline and less privacy for current residents. It will also impinge on adjoining public land. It defies the lowrise local residential style.

This development will set a precedent for further development.

This is a rare opportunity for Stonnington to increase open space, develop a school or a stellar medium density residential development. We do not need another Docklands.

Already we know that Toorak Station is within developers' sites. How long before Hawksburn and Armadale are redeveloped?

Stonnington Council - after much campaigning - refused the permit but developer Lend Lease successfully overturned this decision at VCAT. This VCAT decision is in turn being appealed in the Supreme Court in April 2013.

Our opponent is smart, moneyed, experienced and well connected. We won't win this without your help.

Lend Lease has 'consulted' but never compromised. They entirely underestimated our ability to fight their plan.

Reading this is just the beginning - we need you to work with us to fight the towers.